James Benton Holliday's Obituary
James Benton Holliday, age 86, of Unionville, Missouri, passed away Monday, January 2, 2023 at Putnam County Care Center in Unionville.
James was born on September 23, 1936 in Unionville, Missouri, the son of Charley and Starr Alice (Salver) Holliday. On June 29, 1956, James enlisted in the United States Army in Kansas City, Missouri. He was a Heavy Equipment Vehicle Operator, performing his duties overseas for over two years, and in the states for 4 years. He served his country faithfully, and was honorably discharged on May 31, 1962.
On December 22, 1960, James was united in marriage to Della Mae McCaughty in Kirksville, Missouri. To this union, five children were born, Linda, Brenda, Jerry, Terry and baby James.
James was a "Jack of all trades". He worked at the foundry in Centerville for a period of time. He also worked for Don Veers Farming and Premium Standards. In his free time, James loved singing Karaoke on Friday nights with his friends and family. He also enjoyed hunting and playing pool.
Left to honor James' memory are his children, Linda Ann (Bryan) Smith of Unionville, MO, Brenda (Randy) Davis of Centerville, IA, Jerry Holliday of Woodburn, IA, and Terry (Lanita) Holliday of Unionville, MO; grandchildren, Christina Lawrence, Justin Lawrence, Sabryna Smith, and Jessica Davis; great grandchildren, Jasmin Walrad, Hailey Lawrence, Jonathon Lawrence, and Miley Lawrence; five siblings, Will Holliday, Jim Holliday, Verdy, Liz, and Lois; as well as several extended family members.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Charley and Starr Alice Holliday; his siblings, twin brother- Jim Edward Holliday, brothers, Ben Holliday, Jr. Holliday, his sister, Lee Holliday; and his baby son, James Edward Holliday.
Per wishes, cremation has been accorded. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10AM, Friday, January 6, 2023 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville. Burial will take place at Thompson Cemetery in Putnam County, Missouri. Memorials may be written to The Family of James Holliday, to be determined at a later date, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Holliday family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or on our funeral home Facebook page.
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